Zahid criticises Pakatan fuel pledges, questions policy consistency ahead of elections

KUALA LUMPUR — Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi launched a political attack on Pakatan Harapan's fuel price promises on Wednesday, questioning the coalition's credibility on economic matters ahead of anticipated general elections.

Zahid took particular aim at what he characterised as policy reversals by the government, citing the Budi95 fuel subsidy scheme as an example of inconsistent governance. The Umno leader suggested such flip-flopping undermined public confidence in Pakatan's economic management and policy implementation.

The opposition leader's remarks reflected intensifying political friction between Umno and the ruling Pakatan coalition, with both sides positioning themselves for electoral contests. Zahid's comments highlighted Umno's strategy of attacking the government's record on cost-of-living issues, a key concern for Malaysian voters grappling with inflation and rising expenses.

In his statement, Zahid indicated that Umno and its allies were in fighting form and prepared to contest the next general election. The remarks underscored the sharpening political contest in Malaysia as multiple political coalitions gear up for what could be closely fought electoral battles.